William Josiah Adams, 88 passed away in Ennis, Texas on July 20, 2016. Bill was born in Niagara Falls, New York on September 25, 1927 to Charles and Manette Adams. Bill attended St. Mary’s High School in Niagara Falls and the University of Buffalo, University of Texas and Southern Methodist University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degrees in Physics and Mathematics.
Bill proudly served in the United States Navy from 1945-1947, and the Air Force from 1950-1951.
He was a Flight Test Engineer in Project Engineering with E-Systems, Inc. where he was instrumental in developing and designing radar, missile and guidance systems for the U.S. Government and Military. He received numerous awards and Air Force commendations for his personal efforts in developing specialized weapon systems. He worked on projects such as Air Force One, the personal plane of the King of Saudi Arabia and the AWACS Aircraft Defense Warning System. Mr. Adams retired in 1987.
He was affiliated with The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Society of Flight Test Engineers, and AARP where he assisted in tax preparation for 15 years. He was also active in the Sierra Club and Boy Scouts of America for many years with his sons. He enjoyed traveling, camping, hiking, and sports, especially football.
He is survived by his loving wife, Gerry, of 26 years. His children Clifford and friend Molly McCoy, Thomas Adams, Susan Wicklander, Michael Prokop, Steve and Eva Prokop, David and Leah Prokop, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, sister and wife Madeline.
The Adams family wishes to thank Family First Hospice, and Legend Oaks Nursing Center and Rehab for all their help in caring for Bill.
Visitation will be held Friday, July 22, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with Rosary at 7:00 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary chapel of Ennis. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church of Ennis, with Father John Dick as celebrant. Interment will be held in Memoryland Memorial Park in Greenville, Texas at 2:30 p.m. under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to The American Cancer Society.
